What's eating my pleurothallis truncata?

Pleurothallis truncata is a compact cool-intermediate miniature orchid vulnerable to spider mites when grown in warm, dry rooms. Mealybugs target root collars and leaf bases, and scale insects can settle on stems. Fungus gnats breed in the consistently moist fine-bark or sphagnum medium this species needs.

Pale stippling or silvery bronzing across small leaves; webbing visible on close inspection; leaves may yellow Raise humidity and improve airflow. Spray undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil weekly until no signs remain.

Waxy white clusters at stem bases and roots; stunted new growth and sticky residue Dab colonies with isopropyl-alcohol swab; apply neem oil drench to the root zone; repeat every ten days.

Hard tan or brown bumps adhered to stems; weakened plant vigour over time Scrape off manually with a toothbrush, then treat with horticultural oil spray repeated bi-weekly.

Root gnawing by larvae; adult gnat activity signals overwatering in fine media Use Bti watering drench; introduce Steinernema feltiae nematodes; let medium surface dry slightly between waterings.